I went into my download folder to delete the latest Happy99 file and found four others with varying numbers. I don't even know how they got there.

I installed Norton SystemWorks and started having lock-ups and other problems, but that's working better now. Not only that, but when I first ran the Norton AntiVirus on my machine, it found the happy99 virus I thought I had deleted and gave me several choices. I chose "delete." More problems.

I was then given a message by Norton's AntiVirus that the file wsock32.dll had been deleted. How could that happen? I hadn't authorized the deletion of that one, and undelete didn't find it. Now I couldn't go on the net.

I take my hat off to the tech support guys at Mindspring for their help. They assisted in getting back the wsock32.dll file from my Windows 95 CD. I've since learned that all I had to do was rename the wsock32.ska file in my Windows/System folder that was my original wsock32.dll, still in tact, renamed by the virus. Per advice, I renamed it wsock32.bak.

The Mindspring guys have helped several times with problems and are always courteous and intent on getting the job done. Thanks to all the readers that gave me more Happy99 information. Seems many of you have gotten it.

On top of all that, I had ultrasound to break up kidney stones ... not a pleasant experience. So much for last month. Now, let's review the past deals:

Readers reminded me that the "Parsons/Broderbund/The Learning Company" acquisitions were not where that ended since Mattel topped it all by acquiring them. I wonder who those folks are working for this week!

The only deal still good is the "SpellCatcher" item. Call them at 1-800-359-4920 or visit their web site www.casadyg.com/stores/ug.

If you postponed the Metlund Water Saver device, they might still take a special deal order. I installed mine and love it. My wife loves it when she starts doing the dishes without waiting for hot water. I ended up using their T adapters, only a bit different than they directed. Call them at 1-800-638-5863 or visit their web site at for info.

So That's Where You Get Color Printers!

Come On Now, Be a Good Computer and BOOT-UP!

1. "MiniPOST" economy Power-on self-test card for XT, AT, ISA, EISA computers. Shows self-test codes and power supply status when power is switched on. Instantly shows why system won't boot; Four LEDs show power supply status. Easy to read digital display shows test codes.

2. "PocketPOST V2" Power-on self-test card with logic probe for XT, AT, ISA and EISA computers. Instantly shows why system won't boot. Built-in voltmeter checks power to 95%. Shows status of 10 critical PC BUS signals. Easy-to-read digital display shows test codes. New built-in Logic Probe for the super tech. Troubleshoots to component level.

3. "PC PowerCheck." Professional PC/Amiga power supply test card. Plug-n-play, no software needed. Monitor reset, voltages high, low, noise and spike. LEDs show whether all voltages are in spec. Continuous/trap monitoring of hi/lo/spike.

More descriptions are on these brochures but visit their web site at http://www.datadepo.com, or call Data Depot at 1-800-767-3424 (# also good in Canada) or 1-813-445-3402. Prices for the cards are as follows: MiniPOST test card, list - $149.00, user group - $69.00; PocketPOST test card, list - $299.00, user group - $159.00; and PC PowerCheck card, list - $299.00, user group - $199.00. Tell them the "dealsguy" sent you. I purchased a diagnostic card to check a computer I have, but have not had the chance to try it out at this writing.

Learning For Kids

Call for the "Edutainment" catalog at 1-800-338-3844 if you haven't already received it. Mine had 40 pages of products, although nothing to help me learn to obey my wife better. Some items are for all ages, such as the "Complete Space and Astronomy," but no Hooter's stuff.

Deals You Only Find Out About By Ordering

Here's the catch, you only get this flyer with an "order" received from Parsons. They won't mail this flyer just for the asking. Mine had over 80 closeouts and specials. I'm told you can call in and see if something is on sale. They also offer daily specials that you only find out about by calling. Perhaps that's why I was on hold so long when calling for more information. However, it was nice to get a very friendly voice to answer my questions.

For what it's worth, both recent orders were slow in coming and my patience was rewarded with free software in each order. Not bad titles either, although I'm still trying to figure out some things about the free "Newsletters & More."

For you Barbie lovers, since The Learning Company acquired Parsons they also offer several Barbie titles for $19.95. The acquisition by Mattel should be completed soon, but that doesn't affect your placing an order. The Parsons order number is 1-800-223-6985, but be prepared to wait. I'm thinking about getting some Barbie review software for my wife's birthday. Hmmm, it might be better to get her some cooking software to review.

Remember ViaGrafix?

Here's the deal: Your president, or your club's "Vender contact person," should go to the web site www.viagrafix.com and fill out the application for your user group. That person will then be assigned a code number for ordering review items, and for members to order ViaGrafix products at a 20% discount. Thereafter, you can contact Tammie Kolker at for review items. ViaGrafix's user group database should contain your officer and contact people list. Tutorials are on both video and CD ROM.

Order up to three review products. When they get a review from you, it is possible to order up to three more products for review. I can only tell you this offer is better than it sounds in my column. If your President doesn't already have your group's code number, consider it.

Good Heavens, Where Do I Find That?

Most products have risen in price over the years, but not the Thomas Register. In fact, the price is better than ever, and it can even be bought on CD-ROM (Windows only). That version has nine CDs with tremendous search capabilities. I noticed a 1999 Thomas Register on CD-ROM entitles you to three years of use, but the search software expires on Mar. 31, 2002.

The price for this valuable product and services guide is $199.00 right now, and if you have a "folio" number (mailed to you), it can be had for $149.00 + %9.80 S&H in US. Sorry but no Canadian deals. You might ask if you can qualify for the $149.00 special offer. Call them at 1-800-699-9822 ext. 444, or call customer service at 1-212-290-7277. Visit their web sites at www.thomasregister.com or www.thomaspublishing.com.

They also offer the book version with 34 volumes, if you prefer, for the same price, but $18.95 S&H.

That should do it for this month, but meet me here next month where we will discuss deals and interesting items again. Bob (The Cheapskate) Click. dealsguy@mindspring.com.

For more information on the Tulsa Computer Society click here